Frequently Asked Questions

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What is rehabilitation?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines rehabilitation as:

"A progressive, dynamic, goal-oriented and often time-limited process, which enables an individual with an impairment to identify and reach his/her optimal mental, physical, cognitive and/or social functional level. Rehabilitation provides opportunities for the individual, the family and the community to accommodate a limitation or loss of function and aims to facilitate social integration and independence."

How is Rehabilitation Hospital of Fort Wayne different from other facilities offering rehab services?

Rehab Hospital offers a comprehensive rehabilitation program that combines the familiar services of a hospital with an intensive therapy program.

24-Hour nursing

High nurse to patient ratio

Nursing staff includes Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurses

On site medical directors

Availability of physical therapy, occupational therapy and speech therapy on site

Rehab Hospital is accredited by two organizations. The first is The Joint Commission who is responsible for evaluating and accrediting hospitals that voluntarily submit for inspection using specific standards for quality and safety. The second organization is the Commission for Accreditation on Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF). CARF accredits organizations based on quality of care and services. CARF also values dedication to continuous quality improvement. Rehab Hospital is also licensed by the Indiana State Department of Health and is Medicare approved.

Is there a single contact person coordinating my physicians, therapists, payment issues and discharge planning?

An experienced case manager will assist in coordinating your care from admission through discharge and beyond, based on your needs. The case manager will coordinate the treatment team including physician involvement, therapy recommendations and payment issues. A case manager meets with the patient and family within 24 hours of admission.

What is a therapy session actually like?

Therapy programs are based on the needs and abilities of the individual. The intensity of each session is based on the progressing skills and tolerance levels of each patient. Rest periods are provided throughout the day to ensure optimal participation and effectiveness.

What should the patient bring to the hospital?

Sweat suits and rubber-soled shoes or gym shoes have proven the favorite attire of patients. Four to five changes of clothes are recommended. A jacket or coat for outside activities, pajamas, underwear, slippers, and toiletry items are also needed. Please put the patient's name on all items. Also, patients should bring a complete list of medications and any special adaptive equipment they may already have, such as a brace or artificial limb. Click here for a more complete list.

When are visiting hours, and who may visit?

Visiting hours are from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, but exceptions may be granted. The number of visitors allowed in a patient's room might be limited, based on the patient's condition. We encourage family participation in the rehabilitation process to ease the transition to home. Family members or friends may also eat with the patient by paying a nominal fee.

When is the patient discharged? How do you determine when a patient will be able to return home?

Length of stay varies depending on each individual, their diagnosis and progress. Each patient has a treatment team that meets at least once a week to discuss specific goals and progress. Length of stay and discharge plans will be based on the patient's progress toward these goals. The patient will be notified of discharge plans at least two days prior to discharge.

What happens after a patient leaves?

Programs at Rehab Hospital are designed to teach patients how to prepare for their discharge before they leave. Therapies support patients in activities of work, play and daily living. Patients leave with a program that continues after discharge as well as a list of available community resources. The case manager will assist in making arrangements for services needed after discharge such as outpatient therapy or homebound meals.